Welcome to texas oil and gas investments

DTS is based on optical time-domain reflectometry (OTDR) and uses optical fiber instead of electronic sensors. When laser pulses are sent through the fiber, light is backscattered as the pulse propagates down. Since the velocity of light propagation in the optical fiber is known, distance can be determined. And, because some of the backscattered light is affected by temperature, it is possible to determine the precise temperature at specific points along the entire length of the fiber.

Some DTS applications, such as monitoring underground power lines, are possible using standard telecommunications optical fiber. “But the downhole environment of an oil or gas well requires specialized fiber,” says Vic Swenson, a Optical Systems Engineer with SensorTran.

SensorTran turns to OFS Specialty Photonics to provide engineered fiber solutions. “Their long history and heritage – and their ability to assess customer applications – are invaluable,” notes Swenson.

Solutions for a harsh environment
Standard optical fiber is not suitable for the harsh downhole environment. Pressures within wells average less than 10,000 psi but can reach as high 30,000 psi, and temperatures as high as 200°C are not uncommon. In addition, shock and vibration that can damage an electronic gauge have no impact on optical fiber.

“Fiber has a significant advantage over electronics because you’re not putting sensitive equipment in this very rough environment. With a DTS system, all the electronics are on the surface, not down in the well,” says Hickey.